(Top 5 dinner spots at the end)
Lockeland Table Community Kitchen and Bar is nestled in the historic neighborhood of its namesake, Lockeland Springs, in East Nashville. Woven into it’s very fabric are elements of the community, history and camaraderie that make up it’s charm. From the reconstructed rehabbed rustic storefront to resemble the original 1930's H.G. Hills dry goods store, to the center wall built by friends and family, to the comforting Southern accented dishes paying tribute to Chef/Owner Hal Holden-Bache’s upbringing, all representing a piece of Lockeland Table’s foundation. Since opening back in August of 2012, Lockeland Table is a staple in the community successfully serving delicious farm to table food to locals and visitors alike. Lockeland Table has a beautiful casual atmosphere that makes it approachable and inviting. The most impressive aspect or element for this amazing restaurant is the friendly knowledgeable staff, cool cocktails and tasty wine, the delicious food helps too.
We stopped by on a packed Saturday night 30 mins before their scheduled closing. The only space they had left was at the bar which we preferred and when I say packed, I mean this place was busy and in full swing. The staff were part ambassadors smiling at you while hustling by with cocktails and/or dishes, and part acrobat as they weave through the crowds expertly in the crowded areas without missing a beat or spilling anything. To say I was impressed with this well oiled operation is an understatement. I had an amazing smoked old fashioned with Corsair Ryemageddon and black walnut bitters. The Dragonfly house cocktail using Uncle Val’s botanical gin was delicious. Of course we had a bottle of prosecco and really wanted to try the crab cake appetizer but being such a popular item, by the time we got there, it was sold out. Another reason to visit again. We ordered the seared scallops, bone marrow and shared the featured ribeye. I had tears in my eyes, it was so good.
There is a definite wood fired grilling element that I love but if you’re not into the wood fired smoke flavor in your meats or dishes, then shy away from those dishes. The accommodating service and friendly attitude, the delicious food and drinks,the amazing rustic atmosphere and modern hip music, all a wonderful surprise but what impressed me the most was the bathrooms. Two unisex bathrooms, late on a busy Saturday night. What would you expect the condition of those bathrooms to be in? I had an idea and prepared for the worst. To my surprise, the bathroom was very clean, mood lighting aura and smelled amazing with a distinctive scent you usually only find at an expensive luxury hotel chain such as the Four Seasons. I couldn’t believe it so I did what any curious person does, check the other bathroom, it must be a mistake or fluke, nope. The other bathroom was just as amazing and smelled great. Lockeland Table from start to finish with expectations being high have exceeded my expectations in all aspects of the dining experience and as of right now, is the best overall restaurant I have visited in Nashville. I tried really hard to find any flaws or anything to critique about, even the guests that dine here were friendly and interesting as I sparked up conversation with my neighboring guests at the bar. I feel sorry for the rest of the restaurants and bars because the ceiling has been set and I don’t foresee anyone topping the euphoric experience received. The positive feeling of the staff and guests were contagious. If you want a dose of “happiness,” go visit Lockeland Table soon.
Keywords: East Nashville, Neighborhood Restaurant, Lockeland Springs, Southern Inspired Cuisine, Community Kitchen, Craft Cocktails, Wine, Wood Fired Pizza
Price Range: $$$
Overall grade: Boozy: thumbs up Woozie: thumbs up
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Boozy Woozie Cocktail inspired by Lockeland Table:
The Perfectionist
2 oz Patron Reposado
0.75 oz fresh lemon juice
0.75 oz Ginger-Honey Syrup
0.25 oz Del Maguey Vida Mezcal (topped at end)
Garnish with a candied ginger
Shaken and strained into a double rocks glass with a giant ice cube or sphere
*Ginger-Honey Syrup: Combine 1 cup honey, a 6 inch piece of peeled and thinly sliced or minced ginger (approx ¼ cup) and 1 cup water in a saucepan over high heat, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium, and simmer for 5 mins. Place in the refrigerator to steep for at least 4 hours. Strain with a cheesecloth or fine strainer.
Top 5 Dinner Spots:
Folk
404 Kitchen
Husk
Rolf & Daughters
Lockeland Table
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