Unearth The Voyage
Tucked in the heart of downtown Nashville, The Southern Steak & Oyster has become a local favorite for anyone craving bold flavors and Southern hospitality. This trendy spot combines wood-fired meats, fresh oysters, and fried classics in a way that feels both familiar and exciting.
With a bustling bar scene and creative dishes that honor Tennessee’s culinary roots, it’s no wonder this restaurant is making waves across the city.
Flames dance over premium cuts of beef, creating a smoky crust that locks in every bit of juicy flavor. The Southern Steak & Oyster takes pride in cooking their steaks over real wood fire, which adds a depth you simply can’t get from a regular grill.
Each steak arrives at your table sizzling hot, with char marks that promise a perfect bite every single time.
Guests rave about the tenderness and rich taste that comes from this old-school cooking method. Whether you prefer a ribeye, filet, or New York strip, the kitchen knows how to treat each cut with respect.
The wood-fired technique isn’t just a gimmick—it’s a commitment to bringing out the best in every piece of meat.
Pair your steak with one of their signature sides, and you’ve got a meal worth celebrating. The restaurant’s dedication to quality shows in every aspect, from sourcing to plating.
It’s clear why locals and visitors alike keep coming back for more of these unforgettable steaks.
Shucked to order and served on ice, the oysters here taste like they just came straight from the coast. The Southern Steak & Oyster sources their shellfish carefully, ensuring every oyster delivers that clean, briny flavor seafood lovers crave.
You can enjoy them raw with classic mignonette or try one of the creative preparations the kitchen dreams up daily.
The oyster bar sits right in the middle of the action, so you can watch skilled shuckers work their magic while you sip on a cocktail. It’s an experience that brings a little bit of the ocean to landlocked Tennessee.
The variety changes regularly based on what’s freshest, giving you a reason to try something new each visit.
First-timers often start with a sampler to taste different regions and flavor profiles. The staff is always happy to explain the differences and recommend pairings.
From East Coast to Gulf varieties, the selection is impressive and shows the restaurant’s commitment to quality seafood in the heart of Nashville.
Crispy, golden, and utterly addictive—the fried dishes at The Southern bring comfort food to a whole new level. From fried green tomatoes to buttermilk fried chicken, each item gets the care and attention it deserves.
The batters are seasoned perfectly, creating a crunch that gives way to tender, flavorful insides.
Southern cooking has always celebrated the art of frying, and this restaurant honors that tradition with pride. The chicken arrives hot and juicy, with a coating that stays crispy from the first bite to the last.
Fried catfish is another standout, offering flaky white fish wrapped in a cornmeal crust that’s simply divine.
Even the sides get the fried treatment when appropriate, like the famous fried pickles that disappear from plates in seconds. The kitchen uses quality oil and proper temperatures to ensure nothing tastes greasy or heavy.
It’s Southern comfort elevated to an art form, proving that classic techniques still have a place in modern dining.
Bartenders shake, stir, and muddle their way through an impressive menu of handcrafted drinks that complement the bold flavors of the food. The bar scene at The Southern Steak & Oyster buzzes with energy, drawing both diners and those just looking for a great drink.
Signature cocktails feature local spirits and fresh ingredients, creating combinations you won’t find anywhere else in Nashville.
The bourbon selection alone is worth a visit, showcasing Tennessee’s proud whiskey heritage alongside other premium labels. Classic cocktails get a Southern twist here—think mint juleps with unexpected herbs or old fashioneds made with house-made bitters.
The bartenders know their craft and love talking about the stories behind each drink.
Happy hour brings in crowds looking to unwind after work, making the bar area lively and social. The atmosphere strikes a perfect balance between upscale and approachable, so everyone feels welcome.
Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur or just want something refreshing, the drink menu offers plenty of exciting options to explore.
Saturday and Sunday mornings transform The Southern into a brunch destination that’s worth setting an alarm for. Opening at 10 AM on weekends, the restaurant serves up creative breakfast dishes that blend Southern tradition with modern flair.
Chicken and waffles get elevated with unexpected toppings, while eggs Benedict comes with a regional twist that locals absolutely love.
The brunch menu doesn’t shy away from indulgence—think rich gravies, perfectly poached eggs, and biscuits that practically melt in your mouth. Bottomless mimosas and bloody marys keep the mood festive and relaxed.
The atmosphere during brunch hours feels more casual than dinner service, making it a great time to bring friends or family.
Reservations are highly recommended because word has spread about how good this weekend meal really is. The kitchen manages to keep everything fresh and hot even during the busiest rushes.
From sweet to savory options, there’s something to satisfy every morning craving at this Nashville brunch hotspot.
Situated at 150 3rd Ave S in the heart of Nashville’s entertainment district, The Southern couldn’t be more perfectly placed. The location puts diners within walking distance of music venues, hotels, and other downtown attractions.
After a show at the Bridgestone Arena or a stroll along Broadway, this restaurant offers a convenient and delicious dining option.
The building itself fits right into Nashville’s blend of historic charm and modern development. Large windows let natural light flood the dining room during lunch hours, while evening brings a warm, inviting glow.
Being downtown means the energy of Music City flows right through the doors, creating an atmosphere that feels distinctly Nashville.
Parking can be tricky in this busy area, but several garages nearby make it manageable for those driving in. The central location also makes The Southern a popular choice for business lunches and pre-concert dinners.
Whether you’re a tourist exploring the city or a local looking for a reliable spot, the address couldn’t be more convenient for experiencing Nashville dining at its finest.
With 4.5 stars from nearly 4,000 reviews, The Southern Steak & Oyster has clearly won over the hearts and stomachs of countless visitors. This kind of consistent praise doesn’t come easy in the competitive Nashville food scene.
The high rating reflects not just good food, but also excellent service, atmosphere, and overall value that keeps people coming back.
Reading through guest feedback reveals common themes: friendly staff, generous portions, and flavors that exceed expectations. Even picky eaters and food critics seem to find something to love on the menu.
The restaurant maintains this quality day after day, which is no small feat for a busy downtown establishment.
Negative reviews are few and far between, usually focusing on typical restaurant challenges like wait times during peak hours. The overwhelmingly positive response shows that The Southern delivers on its promises.
For anyone researching Nashville restaurants, this rating serves as a reliable indicator that you’re in for a great meal and memorable experience.
Walking into The Southern feels like stepping into a space that perfectly captures modern Nashville style. Exposed brick walls mix with contemporary lighting fixtures, creating an ambiance that’s both rustic and refined.
The design choices honor Southern heritage without feeling dated or overly themed, striking a balance that appeals to diverse crowds.
The dining room layout encourages socializing, with a mix of booth seating and communal tables that foster conversation. Music plays at just the right volume—present enough to enhance the mood but not so loud you can’t hear your dinner companions.
The bar area pulses with slightly more energy, while the dining sections offer a calmer vibe for those wanting a relaxed meal.
Lighting changes throughout the day, from bright and airy during lunch to warm and intimate at dinner. The decor includes subtle nods to Nashville’s music heritage without being kitschy.
Overall, the space feels welcoming to everyone from dressed-up date-nighters to casual groups of friends grabbing a bite after exploring the city.
Opening at 11 AM most days (10 AM on weekends), The Southern makes lunch service a priority for downtown workers and visitors alike. The midday menu features many of the same beloved dishes as dinner but often with slightly lighter options and faster service.
Business meetings happen over oysters and salads, while tourists fuel up before continuing their Nashville adventures.
Lunch crowds tend to move a bit quicker than dinner service, making this a smart choice when you’re on a timeline. The kitchen maintains the same quality standards regardless of the time of day.
Specials often appear during lunch hours, offering great value without sacrificing the flavors that make this restaurant special.
The weekday lunch scene attracts a mix of professionals in suits and casual diners in jeans, creating a relaxed atmosphere. Servers understand that lunch diners often need to get back to work or continue sightseeing, so they keep things moving efficiently.
It’s an excellent way to experience The Southern’s cooking without the evening wait times or crowds.
Staying open until 9 PM most nights and 10 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, The Southern accommodates Nashville’s vibrant nightlife schedule perfectly. After catching a show or exploring the honky-tonks, you can still get a proper meal rather than settling for bar snacks.
The kitchen keeps cranking out quality dishes right up until closing time, which isn’t always the case at other restaurants.
Late diners appreciate that the full menu remains available, not just a limited after-hours selection. The bar continues serving creative cocktails and pouring drinks for those wanting to extend their evening.
The energy shifts as night deepens, with the crowd becoming more relaxed and social as the hours pass.
These extended hours make The Southern a reliable option for visitors with evening plans who need flexibility. The staff remains attentive even during the final hour of service, never rushing guests or making them feel unwelcome.
For a city that truly comes alive after dark, having a quality restaurant open late is a real asset to downtown Nashville’s dining scene.
While steaks and oysters grab the headlines, the side dishes at The Southern could easily be the main event. Creamy mac and cheese comes loaded with sharp cheddar and a crispy breadcrumb top that adds textural contrast.
Collard greens get cooked low and slow with just the right amount of smokiness, honoring traditional Southern preparation methods.
The Brussels sprouts arrive caramelized and charred, proving that vegetables can be just as exciting as any protein. Mashed potatoes are whipped to creamy perfection, while the cornbread comes out warm with honey butter that melts into every crumb.
Each side receives the same attention to seasoning and technique as the main courses.
Many guests end up ordering extra sides to share family-style, turning the meal into a communal feast. The portions are generous without being wasteful, giving you plenty to enjoy without feeling overstuffed.
These aren’t afterthoughts tossed on the plate—they’re carefully crafted dishes that showcase Southern vegetables and comfort foods at their absolute best.
From the moment you walk through the door, the staff at The Southern greets you with genuine Southern hospitality. Servers know the menu inside and out, offering recommendations based on your preferences rather than just pushing expensive items.
They strike that perfect balance between attentive and giving you space to enjoy your meal and conversation.
Questions about ingredients, preparation methods, or dietary accommodations are answered with patience and knowledge. The team works together smoothly, so even during busy rushes, you never feel forgotten or neglected.
Drinks get refilled before you have to ask, and courses arrive at a comfortable pace that lets you savor each dish.
Many reviews specifically mention servers by name, noting how they elevated the dining experience with their warmth and professionalism. The kitchen staff also deserves credit for accommodating special requests whenever possible.
This level of service doesn’t happen by accident—it comes from good training, fair treatment of staff, and a genuine desire to make every guest’s visit memorable for all the right reasons.
Marked with three dollar signs, The Southern sits in that sweet spot of being special enough for celebrations but not so expensive you need a loan. The pricing reflects the quality ingredients and downtown location without crossing into territory that feels excessive.
Steaks are priced competitively with other Nashville steakhouses, while oyster prices vary based on market availability.
Lunch offers particularly good value, with several options that won’t break the bank for workers on their break. The portions are substantial enough that you get your money’s worth without needing to order multiple courses.
Happy hour specials make the bar scene even more accessible for those watching their budget.
When you factor in the atmosphere, service, and food quality, most diners feel they receive excellent value. Special occasions justify the splurge, while the restaurant remains approachable enough for a regular night out.
The Southern proves that you don’t have to choose between quality and affordability in downtown Nashville—you can have both at the same table.
Calling ahead at 615-636-2626 can save you from a long wait, especially on weekends and during Nashville’s busy tourist seasons. The reservation system works smoothly, and the staff tries their best to accommodate timing requests when possible.
Walk-ins are welcome, but be prepared for a wait during peak dining hours—the bar area offers a comfortable spot to enjoy a drink while you wait.
The restaurant’s website provides menus, hours, and additional information for those who like to plan ahead. Online reservation platforms also connect to The Southern, making it easy to secure a table from your phone.
The staff handles large party requests with professionalism, working to find solutions even during their busiest times.
Communication is clear and friendly whether you’re calling, emailing, or asking questions in person. The host stand manages the flow of guests efficiently, keeping track of wait times and seating preferences.
Having multiple ways to reach the restaurant shows they understand modern diners’ needs and want to make the experience as smooth as possible from the very first point of contact.
After your first visit to The Southern Steak & Oyster, chances are you’ll already be planning your return trip. The combination of exceptional food, inviting atmosphere, and genuine hospitality creates an experience that sticks with you long after the meal ends.
Regular customers have their favorite dishes and servers, turning occasional visits into a cherished dining tradition.
The restaurant manages to feel special without being stuffy, making it appropriate for everything from first dates to family celebrations. Out-of-town guests always leave impressed, often asking locals why they didn’t bring them here sooner.
The consistency across visits builds trust—you know what to expect, yet there’s always something new to discover on the menu.
Whether you’re a Nashville resident or just passing through Tennessee, The Southern represents the best of what modern Southern cuisine can be. It honors tradition while embracing creativity, respects quality ingredients, and never forgets that dining out should be enjoyable.
That’s exactly why this restaurant continues making waves in a city absolutely packed with incredible places to eat.
