High End Restaurants in Nashville: Husk [2025]

A Much-Needed Date Night

High End restaurants in Nashville

After months of nonstop parenting and busy schedules, my husband and I finally carved out time for a proper date night. It had been far too long since we went out—just the two of us. I finally gathered the courage to book a babysitter for our son, and from the moment it was confirmed, I was eagerly anticipating a night of connection, conversation, and incredible food.

Husk had been on my radar for a while. Known as one of the high end restaurants in Nashville, it’s often mentioned as a must-visit spot for anyone wanting to experience refined Southern cuisine. So when I secured a reservation, I was practically counting down the days.

Southern Charm with Historic Roots

We originally reserved a table indoors, but after stepping onto the property and feeling the warm breeze of the evening air, we asked to be seated outside instead. It was the perfect decision. The setting added to the overall charm and made the night feel even more special.

Located in the peaceful Rutledge Hill neighborhood near downtown, Husk Nashville is housed in a beautifully restored 1880s home once owned by a former Nashville mayor. There’s something truly magical about dining in a place that holds so much local history. The building itself feels like it’s part of the story Husk is telling—one rooted in the past, but still vibrant and alive.

The Husk Philosophy: Southern Ingredients Only

Husk’s mission is clear: if an ingredient can’t be sourced from the South, it doesn’t make it onto the plate. Originally launched in Charleston in 2010, the restaurant set out to celebrate and elevate traditional Southern ingredients and recipes. Although chef Sean Brock was the creative force behind Husk’s beginning, he has since moved on to focus on his own restaurant ventures in Nashville, such as Audrey, June, and Joyland.

Despite his departure, Husk continues to uphold its culinary vision. With a changing seasonal menu and a deep commitment to local sourcing—often from its own onsite garden—Husk remains a true showcase of the South’s diverse flavors and heritage.

What We Ordered: A Flavorful Journey

High End Restaurants in Nashville: Starters

To start, we tried the Kentuckyaki-glazed pig ears served with lettuce wraps, Blue Plate mayo, and peanuts. It was a fun, textural dish with plenty of flavor. We also added the butter biscuits, which were warm, flaky, and absolutely comforting.

Main Courses: Southern Sophistication

My husband chose the Bucksnort trout served with Carolina Gold rice and a sage-infused white sauce made with country ham. The trout was expertly cooked—delicate, flavorful, and melt-in-your-mouth tender.

I opted for the Manchester Farms quail accompanied by a rich Beauregard sweet potato casserole and a touch of peanut for crunch. The combination was thoughtful and seasonal, though not overly heavy.

High End Restaurants in Nashville: Dessert

To round out the evening, we shared a dark chocolate crumb cake layered with banana and black walnut. It was a rich, decadent finish that perfectly captured the restaurant’s Southern-meets-modern style.

Final Thoughts: Is Husk Worth It?

Was the food good? Yes. Was it beautifully presented and thoughtfully composed? Absolutely. But if I’m being honest, I didn’t quite have the “wow” moment I was hoping for. That said, Husk’s menu is ever-changing, and each visit brings a new interpretation of Southern cuisine. So while this particular meal didn’t leave me completely floored, I still believe Husk is a must-eat in Nashville, especially for those wanting to explore the city’s more elevated dining scene.

Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time, Husk offers a high-end restaurant experience in Nashville that blends history, creativity, and the deep culinary roots of the South.