TOP 5 Seafood Restaurants in Nashville 2025

Nashville’s culinary landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with the city’s seafood scene emerging as an unexpected jewel in its gastronomic crown. While the Music City may be hundreds of miles from the nearest coast, innovative chefs and restaurateurs have created an impressive array of new seafood restaurants in Nashville that rival coastal establishments in both quality and creativity.

Leading this wave of maritime excellence is Brugada Kitchen and Bar, widely recognized as the best seafood restaurant in Nashville. This sophisticated establishment has revolutionized the city’s approach to seafood dining, bringing a fresh perspective to how inland restaurants can deliver exceptional oceanic cuisine. Through carefully cultivated relationships with premium seafood suppliers and a commitment to same-day delivery, Brugada ensures that Nashville diфners experience the ocean’s bounty at its peak freshness.

What sets Nashville’s burgeoning seafood scene apart is its unique ability to blend traditional Southern hospitality with sophisticated coastal flavors. From Gulf Coast classics reimagined with a Tennessee twist to innovative fusion dishes that push culinary boundaries, the city’s top seafood establishments are proving that geography is no barrier to exceptional seafood dining.

Best Seafood Restaurants in Nashville 2025: TOP 5

Nashville’s culinary landscape has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with the city’s seafood scene emerging as an unexpected jewel in its gastronomic crown. While the Music City may be hundreds of miles from the nearest coast, innovative chefs and restaurateurs have created an impressive array of new seafood restaurants in Nashville that rival coastal establishments in both quality and creativity.

Leading this wave of maritime excellence is Brugada Kitchen and Bar, widely recognized as the best seafood restaurant in Nashville. This sophisticated establishment has revolutionized the city’s approach to seafood dining, bringing a fresh perspective to how inland restaurants can deliver exceptional oceanic cuisine. Through carefully cultivated relationships with premium seafood suppliers and a commitment to same-day delivery, Brugada ensures that Nashville diners experience the ocean’s bounty at its peak freshness.

What sets Nashville’s burgeoning seafood scene apart is its unique ability to blend traditional Southern hospitality with sophisticated coastal flavors. From Gulf Coast classics reimagined with a Tennessee twist to innovative fusion dishes that push culinary boundaries, the city’s top seafood establishments are proving that geography is no barrier to exceptional seafood dining.

Brugada Kitchen and Bar – A New Wave in Nashville Seafood

Nestled in the heart of East Nashville’s vibrant dining district, Brugada Kitchen and Bar has quickly established itself as the best seafood in Nashville Tennessee. The restaurant’s sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between casual elegance and upscale dining. With its exposed brick walls, custom driftwood installations, and warm ambient lighting, the space evokes the feeling of a modern coastal establishment while maintaining its Nashville charm.

What truly sets Brugada apart and makes it the destination for the best seafood boil in Nashville is its innovative approach to seafood preparation. Executive Chef brings her unique fusion perspective to every dish, combining classical techniques with international influences. The menu showcases this creativity while maintaining the integrity of premium seafood ingredients sourced daily from sustainable providers.

Signature Dishes That Define Excellence

The Scallops & Roasted Sunchokes stands as a testament to Chef Brugada’s ingenuity. Perfectly seared day-boat scallops rest atop locally sourced roasted sunchokes, crowned with a pine nut gremolata that adds both texture and depth. This dish exemplifies why Brugada ranks among the best seafood restaurants in Nashville, demonstrating how local ingredients can elevate seafood to new heights.

The Blackened Salmon Pasta has become a crowd favorite, featuring Atlantic salmon with a perfectly crispy exterior while maintaining a tender, medium-rare center. The house-made tomato vodka sauce strikes an ideal balance between richness and acidity, complementing rather than overwhelming the fish’s natural flavors.

Innovation shines through in the Shrimp Kung Pao, where Gulf shrimp meet a harmonious blend of Eastern and Southern influences. The house-made ponzu sauce, infused with local honey and citrus, creates an unforgettable flavor profile that keeps diners returning for more.

Even classic dishes receive special attention – the Shrimp Cocktail, while traditional in concept, demonstrates Brugada’s commitment to excellence. The house-made cocktail sauce, featuring freshly grated horseradish and a secret blend of spices, transforms this standard appetizer into a memorable experience.

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood – Upscale Dining Excellence

Among the distinguished seafood restaurants in Nashville, Eddie V’s Prime Seafood stands as a beacon of sophisticated dining excellence. Located in the prestigious Fifth + Broadway development, this upscale establishment brings a touch of coastal elegance to downtown Nashville. The restaurant’s architecture seamlessly blends modern luxury with classic steakhouse aesthetics, featuring intimate lighting, plush seating, and floor-to-ceiling windows that offer stunning views of the city skyline.

What distinguishes Eddie V’s from other seafood restaurants in Nashville TN is its unwavering commitment to premium seafood sourcing and exceptional service. The restaurant’s dedication to quality is evident in their practice of flying in fresh seafood daily from pristine waters around the world. The refined atmosphere is enhanced by live jazz music in the V Lounge, creating an immersive dining experience that transports guests to the golden age of fine dining.

Culinary Masterpieces

The menu at Eddie V’s showcases the kitchen’s expertise with standout dishes like the Chilean Sea Bass in Champagne sauce, which practically melts in your mouth. Their signature Parmesan Sole is an exercise in textural perfection, while the Georges Bank Scallops, served with citrus-brown butter sauce, exemplify the kitchen’s ability to enhance natural flavors without overwhelming them.

The raw bar deserves special mention, featuring a spectacular array of fresh oysters from both coasts, served with house-made mignonette and cocktail sauces. The Maine Lobster Tacos, a popular starter, perfectly balance luxury with approachability, featuring succulent lobster meat dressed in spicy cabbage slaw and wrapped in house-made tortillas.

Jeff Ruby’s Steakhouse, Nashville – Where Surf Meets Turf

While primarily celebrated for its exceptional steaks, Jeff Ruby’s has earned its place among the best seafood in Nashville through its outstanding seafood program. Located in downtown Nashville’s vibrant heart, this sophisticated establishment has mastered the art of combining premier steakhouse traditions with exceptional seafood offerings, making it one of the most sought-after seafood places in Nashville TN.

The restaurant’s atmosphere exudes old-world luxury with a modern Nashville twist. Art deco touches blend seamlessly with contemporary design elements, while live music from the grand piano creates an ambiance that’s both elegant and inviting. The attentive service staff, trained in the finest details of fine dining, elevates every meal into a memorable experience.

Seafood Excellence in a Steakhouse Setting

Jeff Ruby’s seafood menu stands as a testament to their commitment to excellence. The Coldwater Lobster Tail, sourced from the pristine waters of the North Atlantic, arrives perfectly butter-poached and presented with theatrical flair. Their Sushi Grade Ahi Tuna, served with a wasabi-forward ponzu sauce, demonstrates the kitchen’s ability to handle delicate seafood with precision and respect.

What truly sets Jeff Ruby’s apart in Nashville’s seafood scene is their signature Seafood Tower – a magnificent display of oceanic delicacies including Maine lobster, colossal shrimp, fresh oysters, and king crab legs, all artfully arranged on a dramatic tiered presentation. This show-stopping appetizer has become one of the most photographed dishes in Nashville’s dining scene.

The Char-Broiled Oysters Rockefeller offers a unique twist on the classic, featuring spinach, hickory-smoked bacon, and a rich Pernod cream that perfectly complements the briny oysters. Meanwhile, the Blackened Chilean Sea Bass with champagne butter sauce showcases the kitchen’s ability to balance bold flavors with delicate seafood.

Marsh House – Southern Coastal Cuisine

Marsh House has established itself as a premier seafood restaurant in Nashville by masterfully blending Southern culinary traditions with coastal influences. Located in the trendy Gulch district, this elegant establishment brings a breath of fresh sea air to Nashville’s dining scene through its innovative approach to seafood preparation.

The restaurant’s design reflects its coastal-meets-Southern concept, with airy, light-filled spaces adorned with maritime accents and modern Southern artwork. The careful balance between sophisticated and welcoming makes it one of the most good seafood restaurants in Nashville for both special occasions and casual dining.

Coastal Southern Innovation

Marsh House’s menu showcases the kitchen’s creativity with dishes like the Gulf Fish Amandine, which elevates traditional preparation with brown butter sauce and local vegetables. Their Shrimp and Grits redefines the Southern classic by incorporating preserved lemon and mushroom gravy, creating a dish that honors tradition while pushing culinary boundaries.

The Raw Bar program deserves special mention, featuring an ever-changing selection of East and West coast oysters, each carefully chosen to provide unique flavor profiles. The BBQ Shrimp, served with New Orleans-style butter sauce and house-made focaccia, has become a signature dish that perfectly represents the restaurant’s fusion of Southern and coastal cuisines.

Gannons Nashville – Modern Seafood Innovation

As one of the newest additions to the city’s dining scene, Gannons Nashville has quickly established itself among the finest seafood restaurants in Nashville Tennessee. This modern establishment brings a fresh perspective to seafood dining, combining contemporary techniques with traditional flavors to create something entirely unique.

The restaurant’s sleek, industrial-chic design creates an atmosphere that’s both sophisticated and approachable. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with natural light, while the open kitchen concept allows diners to witness the culinary magic firsthand. For those seeking good seafood in Nashville, Gannons offers an engaging dining experience that appeals to all senses.

Innovative Menu Highlights

Gannons’ menu features creative interpretations of seafood classics. The Citrus-Cured Hamachi with yuzu kosho and crispy rice has become an Instagram favorite, while the Lobster Udon with house-made XO sauce demonstrates the kitchen’s ability to blend Asian influences with premium seafood.

Their commitment to sustainability is evident in dishes like the Daily Catch, which features whatever is freshest that day, prepared according to the chef’s inspiration. The Whole Roasted Fish for two, seasoned with Mediterranean herbs and served with seasonal vegetables, showcases their dedication to simple, honest preparations that let quality ingredients shine.

How We Chose These Restaurants

Selecting the top seafood restaurants in Nashville involved a comprehensive evaluation process considering multiple factors. Our primary criteria focused on the following essential elements:

Freshness and Sourcing

Quality of seafood is paramount. We evaluated each restaurant’s sourcing practices, delivery frequency, and relationships with suppliers. The best establishments receive daily deliveries and maintain strict quality control standards.

Preparation and Technique

We assessed the technical skill demonstrated in both simple and complex preparations. The finest upscale seafood restaurants in Nashville excel not only in elaborate dishes but also in executing fundamental cooking techniques perfectly.

Service Excellence

Professional, knowledgeable service is crucial. Staff should understand the menu intimately, including sourcing, preparation methods, and wine pairings. We evaluated both service efficiency and the ability to create memorable dining experiences.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

The overall dining environment contributes significantly to the experience. We considered design, comfort, noise levels, and how well the atmosphere complements the cuisine.

Innovation and Menu Diversity

While traditional preparations are important, we also valued creative approaches and diverse menu offerings that cater to various preferences and dietary requirements.

Value Proposition

While not all top seafood restaurants are inexpensive, each should offer fair value for the quality of food, service, and overall experience provided.

Tips for Your Nashville Seafood Adventure

Finding the best seafood in downtown Nashville requires not just knowing where to go, but also how to plan your visit for the optimal dining experience. Whether you’re a local or visitor seeking exceptional seafood in Nashville Tennessee, here’s your essential guide to making the most of these top establishments.

Best Times to Visit

• Peak Hours: Most restaurants experience their busiest times between 6:30-8:30 PM, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. For a more relaxed dining experience, consider early dinner (5:00-6:00 PM) or later evening slots (after 8:30 PM).
• Special Events: During major Nashville events (CMA Fest, NFL games, conventions), restaurants fill up quickly. Plan accordingly and make reservations well in advance.
• Happy Hours: Several establishments offer excellent happy hour specials:
  • Brugada Kitchen and Bar: Tuesday-Friday, 4:00-6:00 PM
  • Eddie V’s: Daily, 4:00-6:00 PM
  • Marsh House: Monday-Thursday, 5:00-7:00 PM

Reservation Recommendations

• Brugada Kitchen: Reserve 2-3 weeks ahead for weekend dining
• Eddie V’s: Book at least 1-2 weeks in advance, especially for weekend slots
• Jeff Ruby’s: Make reservations 3-4 weeks ahead for prime times
• Marsh House: Weekend reservations recommended 1-2 weeks ahead
• Gannons: Book 1 week ahead for weekends

Parking Information

Downtown Venues:

• Eddie V’s and Jeff Ruby’s offer valet parking ($12-15)
• Public parking garages available within 1-2 blocks ($10-20 for evening parking)
• Limited street parking available after 6 PM

East Nashville (Brugada):

• Free street parking available
• Dedicated lot behind restaurant
• Valet service on weekends ($10)

The Gulch (Marsh House):

• Valet parking available ($12)
• Multiple paid parking lots within walking distance
• Limited street parking

Conclusion

Nashville’s seafood scene has evolved into a sophisticated culinary landscape, with each restaurant bringing its unique interpretation of ocean-to-table dining. Among these stellar establishments, Brugada Kitchen and Bar stands out as one of the best seafood restaurants in Nashville TN, setting new standards for innovative seafood cuisine in the heart of Tennessee.

Experience why critics and locals alike consider Brugada the destination for the best seafood in Nashville TN. Their commitment to fresh ingredients, creative presentations, and exceptional service creates an unforgettable dining experience that keeps guests coming back for more.

Ready to embark on your own culinary adventure? Visit Brugada Kitchen and Bar at 204 Commerce St, Nashville, TN 37201. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving exceptional seafood, their team is ready to provide you with an extraordinary dining experience.

For reservations and detailed information about their latest seasonal offerings, call (615) 678-8952. Their knowledgeable staff will be happy to help you plan your visit and ensure your dining experience exceeds expectations.

Don’t miss the opportunity to discover why Brugada Kitchen and Bar has become Nashville’s premier destination for seafood enthusiasts. Make your reservation today and prepare to experience the perfect blend of Southern hospitality and coastal cuisine.