Experience Tailor Nashville: Indian Home Cooking at Its Finest

 

Nashville, Tennessee has a new hotspot that has opened up to thunderous acclaim. The restaurant has been named one of Bon Appetit’s 10 Best New Restaurants in America, its head chef, Vivek Surti, has earned the achievement of being a James Beard Award semifinalist. Impressive accolades for sure, but a single meal at Tailor Nashville will convince even the most skeptical diner that Surti has created something truly special. Gujarati cooking is something that does not need elevating, but Surti has taken extra care at every step to create a seasonal menu that highlights the bold, nostalgic flavors the region is known for. With intimate presentation and plenty of pairings, anecdotes, and surprises from the chef himself, few restaurants can embody the warmth, comfort, and soul of Nashville quite like Tailor. It’s a remarkable gift, from his family to yours. Sit down, take a load off, and get to know this exciting destination.

 

The space itself feels more like a friend’s home than a restaurant, with exposed brick walls, bespoke decorations, and no communal tables in sight. Warm light shines down from the enormous crystal chandelier – an actual heirloom from chef Surti’s family home – which sets the stage for a truly pleasant meal. Grab a drink at the side bar, sink into a blueberry leather seat, and clink glasses with close company. You might catch a glimpse of Surti explaining the meal to come, or if you’re lucky, opening a bottle of bubbly with a saber.

There are only two seatings each night, and the energy is palpable. Everyone is friendly, relaxed, and as excited to tell you about the food as you are to eat it. The light earth tones around the restaurant really make the colorful food pop, and every moment is a simple but elegant photo op. Take in the drifting scents of spices and fresh brewed Chai, and breathe easy; you’re home. 

 

Chef Surti’s story begins at home, with influences, ingredients and traditions originating from his mother’s cooking. His style seamlessly blends South Asian flavors with a hint of his Nashville upbringing, putting special emphasis on the beauty of everyday foods and the warmth they bring into our lives. (And with fresh ingredients and expert preparation, it’s hard not to be convinced.) 

Tailor’s seasonal coursed menu is extremely tight, with only 7-8 dishes to enjoy, which should speak to their quality. Winter 2024’s menu, for example, is lauded for the Kadhi, a yogurt soup carefully seasoned with cumin, white turmeric, and ginger. Dip the handmade Thelpi frybread in the concoction, but save room for the Sweet Potato Bhel, Surti’s take on an iconic Indian Street food, and the signature Amaroo Hills Farm duck, served as both a perfectly marinated breast, and a jaw-droppingly tender duck confit biryani. 

The menu is fully dynamic, changing as the seasons pass and more than able to accommodate dietary restrictions. With fresh vegetables every season and Surti’s new ideas always finding their way to the table, there’s no way of knowing what awaits you at your reservation, and no doubt that it will be something magical. 

 

The beverage services at Tailor Nashville are world-class, with a large selection of domestic and international wines to complement your meal. An entire page of inventive and original cocktails is sure to delight every palette, with options ranging from sweet and light to bold and timeless. But for the true Tailor experience, the beverage pairing cannot be skipped. It features many captivating choices from the lengthy beverage menu, whose stories and qualities make the experience all the more memorable. For those who don’t partake, there’s even a spirit-free pairing that features all the teas and tonics best suited to supplement the delicious food.

This is all without mentioning the iconic Chai, a recipe Surti’s dad has been developing for over 10 years. We know it contains real Gujarati Tea and a hint of fresh ginger, but the enchanting blend of spices remains a mystery. The tea is served alongside Nankhatai, his dad’s favorite cookie, and makes for an idyllic conclusion to an already memorable meal.